A gracious event unfolded on August 5, 2023 at the San Agustin Center of Studies (SACS) as eight individuals embarked on a profound journey of perpetual commitment to the Church and the Order of Saint Augustine.
Fray Fevin T. Baoc, OSA, Fray Alberto C. Bartiana Jr., OSA, Fray Ronelle S. Dogon, OSA, Fray Eugenio O. Reserva, OSA, Fray Albert Benedict B. Soliman, OSA, Fray Jules Van V. Almerez, OSA, Fray James N. Dosado, OSA, and Fray Keith Lawrence J. Ermac, OSA, made their Solemn Profession of Vows, marking a perpetual commitment to our Lord Jesus Christ as Augustinian friars.
Very Rev. Fr. Andres D. Rivera Jr., OSA, Prior Provincial, received the vows on behalf of Very Rev. Fr. Alejandro Moral Anton, OSA, Prior General.
This solemn occasion was graced by Augustinian priests, brothers, family, and friends of the newly professed brothers; all gathered to witness their commitment to a life of service and holiness.
Fr. Rivera shared in his homily that ‘religious life is a vocation, an invitation towards holiness.’
The solemn profession emphasized their dedication to striving for holiness rather than personal perfection. The profoundness of their journey was reflected in the assertion that “our goal is perfection in holiness.”
This commitment was epitomized by their embracing of the evangelical counsels of chastity, poverty, and obedience and was likened to a guiding light amid life’s complexities.
Fr. Rivera urged the unwavering support and prayers from the community as the eight brothers embarked on this sacred journey.
He encouraged them to embrace humility and to view their solemn profession not as a personal achievement but as a testament to their devotion to God’s service.
Before the final blessing, Fr. Nestor Bandalan Jr., OSA, Provincial Secretary, announced the assignments of the newly solemn professed friars and are expected to report on August 15, 2023:
- Fray Fevin T. Baoc, OSA – Member, Santa Ana Residence, Burgos, Surigao del Norte
- Fray Alberto C. Bartiana Jr., OSA – Member, Santa Ana Residence, Burgos, Surigao del Norte
- Fray Ronelle S. Dogon, OSA- Member, Guipos Residence, Guipos Zamboanga del Sur
- Fray Eugenio O. Reserva, OSA- Member, Santo Niño Mission Station, Vintar, Ilocos Norte
- Fray Albert Benedict B. Soliman, OSA – Member, Saguday Residence, Quirino
- Fray Jules Van V. Almerez, OSA, – Member, Colegio San Agustin – Biñan City, Laguna
- Fray James N. Dosado, OSA, and – Member, Colegio San Agustin – Bacolod City
- Fray Keith Lawrence J. Ermac, OSA- Member, Provincialate Community, Cebu City
With their vows, the Province’s solemn professed friars is now a total of 135.
Their dedication is an inspiration to the Order and beyond, showcasing the power of unwavering faith and the pursuit of holiness.
